Related Articles

Glass tables are generally safe to use in outdoor environments, as long as you choose the proper type of glass and edging. The weight of the glass must be able to withstand wind and rain, while the edges need to be smooth to prevent injuries or breakage.

Thick and Smooth

The safest approach to using glass tables outside is to purchase ones made specifically for patio or garden spaces. This typically means that the glass is the correct thickness for the construction of the table and that the edges are either beveled or finished to a high polish. If the table top is full glass without a frame, the glass must be tempered and have at thickness of at least 3/8 or 1/2 inch. If you are using glass as a topper to another solid table surface, the thickness can be a minimum of 1/4 inch. Glass that is embedded into the table or wrapped with a metal frame will come pre-cut and measured for outdoor use.

About the Author

Wendy K. Leigh is a travel writer and photojournalist from Seattle. She is the Editor of Islands America, a travel website for visiting islands within the United States. She also writes about home design, food and historical architecture. Leigh holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Washington.